Scene 3

A place near the Lists.

(Theseus; Hippolyta; Emilia; Pirithous; Attendants; Servants; Arcite)

Emilia refuses to witness the fight. Both Theseus and Hippolyta insist that she must, as she is the object of the fight, but she will not budge. In the end they let her be. Left alone, Emilia still considers the differences between the two knights. The fighting is heard in the distance. Hearing cries that Palamon has won, she sends servants to confirm this, but they reports that though he had almost won, he was beaten back, and the fight is continuing. Soon more shouting is heard, and Arcite’s victory reported. Emilia grieves for Palamon. Theseus arrives with the court and Arcite, and gives him to her. Theseus praises Arcite to the skies, but Emilia finds no mercy in the situation. (171 lines)